USCIS announced that as a part of its ongoing modernization efforts, English reading and writing tests during naturalization interviews will now be administered on digital tablets. This change was unveiled on October 1st. While tablet usage is not completely new to USCIS processes, this step greatly expanded the use of this technology. Previously, digital tablets were used mainly to sign or verify certain parts of applications. In certain circumstances, paper tests are still available for use, determined on a case-by-case basis.
Applicants should note that eligibility requirements and subject matter of the naturalization test has not changed. The only change is regarding how the test is administered. Immigration Services Officers (ISO) will instruct applicants on how to use the digital tablets and styluses before administering the tests.
ISOs will give the following instructions prior to the commencement of a test:
- For the reading test, a sentence will appear on the tablet and the ISO will ask the applicant to read it.
- For the writing test, several lines will appear on a tablet, replicating the appearance of a piece of blank paper. The ISO will read the sentence aloud and ask the applicant to write it on the tablet.
Despite this change, USCIS will continue to administer the civics test verbally and will not use a tablet for this portion of the naturalization test.
If you are interested in applying for naturalization, be sure to call Berardi Immigration Law today to set up a consultation to speak to one of our attorneys!
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